Episode 129

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Published on:

14th May 2025

#129: MOMENTUM - Think Like Dell (Michael Dell’s Outside the Box Sales Strategy)

We know him as the founder of Dell Computers — but before all that, there was a summer job, a newspaper hustle, and a level of strategic thinking that most 16-year-olds (and honestly, most adults) wouldn’t even think of.

In this episode, I walk you through a wild but true story of how teenage Michael Dell made the equivalent of $68,000 in just a few months... selling newspaper subscriptions. Yup. No computer, no tech — just a clever use of publicly available data and pure hustle.

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Key Takeaways

  • Why saturated markets are actually full of opportunity — if you know how to niche within the niche
  • The genius data-driven strategy Michael used to target his ideal customer
  • How he scaled that simple job into a small operation (and what that means for your business)
  • 4 key lessons you can apply today whether you're running ads, selling offers, or building your audience

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About the Podcast

Permission to CEO
Permission to CEO is the podcast for anyone tired of playing by the rules and ready to redefine what’s possible—on their own terms..

In Permission to CEO, Abu dives into the raw, unfiltered truths of entrepreneurship, sharing stories and strategies from his journey of building multiple 7-figure businesses, reinvention, rebuilding, and grief.

This podcast is for the dreamers sitting on the sidelines, wondering if they’re ready to take the leap. It’s for the ones who think they need permission to start a business, chase an idea, or lead a team—but deep down, know they don’t.

Through candid conversations, actionable insights, and real-world advice, Abu explores topics like overcoming imposter syndrome, building a business with purpose, and navigating the mental hurdles of entrepreneurship. Whether you’re a first-time founder, a creative with a big idea, or someone who’s been waiting for the “right time,” this podcast is your reminder: you don’t need permission to start.

Success isn’t about having it all figured out—it’s about having the courage to start, even when you don’t feel ready.
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Abu Fofanah